LOCAL SALES TAX RENEWAL
Feature
THE FOUR PROJECTS APART OF THE LOCAL SALES TAX RENEWAL
Street Reconstruction Street reconstruction plays a key role in ensuring safe access to businesses and homes throughout Rochester while enhancing the quality of life for the community, visitors, and those who commute to Rochester.
Flood Control & Water Quality While certain areas are more prone to floods in Rochester, major floods impact both personal and commercial traffic, including services of mail delivery, utilities, emergency services, and more in the community. The economic impact of a major flood event is significant and directly effects the community and region. FAQ If not renewed, how will these efforts be funded? Critical investments would still need to be made, without the local sales tax, property owners in Rochester will likely bear the entire cost. If flood control infrastructure is not maintained will flood insurance premiums be impacted? There is a greater risk that insurance premiums will be impacted and an increased number of homes would need flood insurance if the system is not expanded. How does this affect those not in the flood zone ? Major flood events affect traffic, mail delivery, utilities, emergency services, and much more. In addition, over $1.5 billion in Rochester homes and businesses is directly protected by the existing structures.
FAQ How are road projects prioritized?
Criteria includes pavement age and condition, coordination with public utility needs, distribution across the community, proximity to planned development, and connections to projects not eligible for sales tax. If not renewed, how will the street reconstruction be funded? Construction will be delayed while alternative funding is determined. Assessments, property tax increases, and other fees are local funding options that also would be considered as alternative funding if the local sales tax is not renewed. Can federal funds pay for the street reconstruction? Approximately 80% of the road miles in Rochester are not strong candidates for state or federal funding.
Economic Vitality Fund The economic vitality fund can provide investments in housing, workforce development, and childcare. These three issues impact both businesses and community.
Regional Sports & Recreation Complex (RSRC) The regional sports and recreation facility can capitalize on Rochester’s status as a regional hub, attracting additional tourism and generating a substantial economic impact to the area while expanding available recreation space for the community.
FAQ How will the funds be used?
The focus will be on economic development strategies such as affordable housing, regional revitalization, workforce development programs, and infrastructure.
See page 14 for more information.
VOTER INFORMATION Visit the Secretary of State website for details on how to register to vote, where to vote, and what’s on the ballot at www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting
OCTOBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 11
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